FirstRand Empowerment Foundation Bursary 2027: First Honours Funding through Feenix
The FirstRand Empowerment Foundation bursary supports eligible students entering their first full-time, one-year Honours degree in 2027 at an eligible South African public university. Feenix lists a provisional closing date of 31 December 2026. Treat that date as provisional and check the official application page for changes.
Check the entry conditions together
The eligibility page identifies Black South African citizens under the B-BBEE definition, aged 18–35 on 31 December 2027, studying a qualification on the approved 2027 list. Psychology is specifically limited to BA Honours Arts (Psychology). Minimum results are 60% for the undergraduate degree and 60% for NSC Mathematics; Mathematical Literacy does not meet this requirement. Combined household income must not exceed R700,000 annually.
Commerce qualifications and a second Honours degree are excluded. The scheme also prohibits concurrent funding from another source. Meeting the basic criteria allows an application to be considered; it does not guarantee an award.
What the bursary may cover
The official programme information lists tuition, accommodation subject to a R65,000 maximum, travel stipends, books, food and airtime vouchers, and development support. Accommodation must be accredited and appear on the university fee statement. The bursary does not pay private accommodation providers directly.
That accommodation distinction deserves attention before you sign a lease. As practical planning, ask your institution whether your intended residence is recognised and billed through the university. Keep any written confirmation with your budget. Do not assume that a property being close to campus makes it eligible for this award.
How to apply
1. Check your qualification against the current eligible-field list.
2. Review the financial and academic evidence requested by Feenix.
3. Open the official application and complete its sections accurately.
4. Declare other funding and review the submission before sending it.
5. If saving a draft, keep the return link securely so you can finish it.
Maintain a separate list of applications, offers and accepted funding. This helps you avoid accidentally representing a pending application as confirmed support or overlooking an exclusivity condition. If your circumstances change while selection is underway, use the programme’s official support channel to explain the change.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use this for a commerce Honours degree?
The current programme says commerce-related qualifications are not eligible.
Can I combine this with another award?
No. The advertised scheme excludes double funding and requires disclosure.
Should I wait until the provisional closing day?
Applying earlier leaves time to resolve document or portal problems. Always check the current deadline rather than relying solely on a saved article.
Official source and updates
Official information checked on 23 October 2026. The provider’s current instructions take priority.
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